EV and hybrid used market is picking up

AA Cars is reporting growing numbers of electric and hybrid cars being offered by dealers.

This means that for green-conscious drivers who found the new price of EVs and hybrids to be out of reach, there are some good deals to be done.

At present, nearly 1,260 hybrid and just over 100 electric cars are being offered dating back a decade but the majority are under two years old.

Toyota Prius (shown) is the most plentiful followed by the stable-mate Auris and the most popular prestige model is the Lexus RX.

Nissan Leaf tops the pure-electric models and the majority of EVs were first registered in 2012 or 2013.

David Bruce, director of AA Cars, said, “We have not yet seen a widespread consumer leap of faith to fully embrace electric cars. Some drivers feel that even with the Government grants, as well as low fuel costs, zero car tax and benefits such as zero London congestion charge, some of these new vehicles are still too pricy.

“The lack of public electric vehicle charging infrastructure can also be a disincentive for those looking to make longer journeys, although most motorway service areas are now so equipped.

“However there are some great ‘green’ deals to be had through AA Cars,” he adds.

The Government scheme set up in 2011 by then transport secretary Philip Hammond, has failed to meet initial predictions so far. A sum of £400 million was set aside to fund grants of up to £5,000 for anyone purchasing eligible hybrid or electric cars but the take-up has been slower than expected.